Black History Month events in Bradford unveiled as flags raised

The sight of two new flags flying next to City Hall officially marked the start of Black History Month on October 1.

The flags - honouring the month itself and Nigerian Independence Day - symbolise both triumph and hopes for better recognition of Black heroes.

People can discover more about Black history, heritage, arts and culture through a series of exciting events this month. 

This year’s ceremony - attended by the Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Beverley Mullaney - was followed by a Caribbean buffet and entertainment at Mary Seacole Court in Little Horton.

(Image: Mike Simmonds) Now a series of exciting events will help people discover Black history, heritage, arts and culture in different ways.

The programme, put together by Bradford Black Heritage Arts & Culture planning group and partners like Bradford Council, has something for all generations and backgrounds.

You can taste African delicacies, enjoy stage drama and live music, games, and much more at the Nigerian Community Association on Nelson Street.

The flag raising ceremony for Black History Month took place on October 1 (Image: Mike Simmonds) Taking place between 2pm and 6pm on October 5, ticket prices for the National Independence & Cultural Day start at £15.

An adults-only paint class at the Dominica Assocation will give people the chance to get creative between 6pm and 8.30pm on October 10.

You can also experience traditional West Indian fun with games of Ludo, dominoes and pool at the same location on October 11.

Hosted by Windrush Generations’ Nigel Guy MBE, it will be a night of entertainment, hot West Indian food and puddings, and laughter.

Ros Tenda and the Roundbeat Rastafari Family will also be playing authentic reggae sounds at Jamyah Night Club on October 5.

Speeches made during the flag raising ceremony (Image: Mike Simmonds) For those who prefer being outdoors, the ‘Get Ready to Ramble’ nature walk will be led by black group leaders from Bradford in the Yorkshire Dales.

Book worms can delve into this year’s theme, Reclaiming Narratives, by joining the book club at Waterstones in Bradford city centre.

Taking place from 6pm on October 29, the club is run by the University of Bradford’s Union of Students.

The Black History Month flag is raised above Centenary Square (Image: Mike Simmonds) Those interested in history can join the trip to Liverpool Slavery Museum with the University’s Union of Students on October 26. 

There will also be fascinating, educational talks on themes such as Black Resistance to British Racism in policing - led by Dr Adam Elliot-Cooper - and historically Black colleges and universities.

For more information and how to get tickets, visit https://bit.ly/bradfordbhm